Alonso return to Renault a 'bold mutual choice' - Abiteboul

Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says the French outfit's renewed association with Fernando Alonso for 2021 is the reflection of a "bold mutual choice".

Alonso will return to the fray next season, having left F1 at the end of 2018 after failing to find success with the Woking-based outfit.

But Alonso's period away from Grand Prix racing has evidently rekindled the motivation of the two-time world champion and 38-year-old, who has set his sights on carrying Renault to the front of the grid next year, alongside young teammate Esteban Ocon.

Official: Alonso to return to F1 with Renault in 2021!

"The signing of Fernando Alonso is part of Groupe Renault’s plan to continue its commitment to F1 and to return to the top of the field," said Abiteboul.

"His presence in our team is a formidable asset on the sporting level but also for the brand to which he is very attached.

"The strength of the bond between him, the team and the fans make him a natural choice. In addition to past successes, it is a bold mutual choice as well as a project for the future."

Renault sates that its desire is to "build a team around two complementary drivers, combining experience and youth, and pooling their values and talent in the service of the project".

"His experience and determination will enable us to get the best out of each other to take the team towards the excellence that modern Formula 1 demands," added Abiteboul.

"He will also bring to our team, which has grown very fast, a culture of racing and winning to overcome hurdles together.

"Alongside Esteban, his mission will be to help Renault DP World F1 Team prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.